"He was marvellous," Sir Alex told MUTV. "For a young boy, 21 only a week ago, he was absolutely superb. His reading of the game, his use of the ball... he was a giant today like many of our players. I was very pleased for the boy."

The Belfast-born centre-back has, according to his defensive partner Nemanja Vidic, slotted in seamlessly.

"I think the whole team was good, but I think Jonny did very well. We didn’t lose a goal, which for defenders is a great thing."

United now haven't conceded a league goal since November, a run stretching back eight matches. Evans has certainly played his part, starting half of those games.